Bosch's plug-in AI unit adds voice, in-cabin vision, and Microsoft 365 to existing car cockpits

Bosch's AI Extension Platform: A Fast Path to Smarter Cockpits

Bosch introduced an AI extension platform that plugs into existing vehicle cockpit systems to add voice assistance, interior scene understanding, and productivity tools. Built with Microsoft and NVIDIA, the unit adds serious compute without forcing a redesign of the current architecture.

"The new AI extension platform enables existing cockpit systems to be quickly and easily upgraded with advanced AI functions," said Markus Heyn, member of the board of management of Robert Bosch and chairman of Bosch Mobility.

What's Inside

• NVIDIA DRIVE AGX Orin system-on-chip delivering 150-200 TOPS of additional compute. Learn more
• Voice assistance, interior scene understanding, and in-cabin AI features.
• Microsoft Foundry integration for access to Microsoft 365 in the vehicle. Microsoft 365 overview
• Voice-activated actions like joining a Microsoft Teams call, with safety functions (e.g., adaptive cruise control) triggered automatically during use.
• Drop-in connection via power and Ethernet, with active air or liquid cooling options.

Why Sales Teams Should Care

• Faster wins: retrofit-friendly add-on means less friction than replacing head units or re-architecting platforms.
• Clear business case: add new features, subscriptions, and services to vehicles already on the road.
• Credibility: solution co-developed with Microsoft and NVIDIA.
• Market tailwinds: Bosch targets >€2bn infotainment sales by 2030, while multiple firms forecast ~€17bn for AI-enabled in-vehicle infotainment by 2030.

Ideal Customers and Buying Triggers

• OEMs with legacy infotainment platforms needing an AI upgrade without a full redesign.
• Tier 1 suppliers seeking a standardized AI add-on for multiple programs.
• Fleets wanting consistent driver experience, voice productivity, and cabin AI features.
• Programs focused on safer hands-off interactions during calls and meetings.

Sales Talk Tracks

• Upgrade without disruption: add AI features today while preserving the existing cockpit stack.
• Productivity in the cabin: Microsoft 365 and Teams access with automatic safety controls.
• Compute headroom on demand: 150-200 TOPS via Orin for present and future AI features.
• Simple integration story: power + Ethernet, plus flexible cooling for different vehicle designs.

Common Objections and Straight Answers

• "Will we need hardware changes?" - No changes to the current cockpit architecture; this is an add-on unit.
• "Thermals and packaging?" - Supports active air or liquid cooling, giving flexibility for tight spaces.
• "Is the compute sufficient?" - 150-200 TOPS of additional capacity via NVIDIA DRIVE AGX Orin.
• "What about safety during calls?" - System can automatically activate safety functions like adaptive cruise control while a call is in progress.
• "Security and productivity?" - Microsoft Foundry integration enables access to Microsoft 365 services within a governed environment.

Metrics to Prove Value

• Attach rate of the AI extension on new and existing models.
• Subscription uptake for productivity and voice features.
• Usage rates for Teams calling and voice commands per trip.
• Customer satisfaction and reduction in driver distraction incidents.

Competitive Angle

Most upgrades require heavy rework of the cockpit stack. This unit adds the missing compute and AI features as a bolt-on, backed by Microsoft and NVIDIA. Bosch plans to showcase the system at CES 2026 in Las Vegas.

Quick Spec Sheet

• Compute: NVIDIA DRIVE AGX Orin, 150-200 TOPS additional.
• Connections: Power and Ethernet.
• Cooling: Active air or liquid options.
• Software: Microsoft Foundry integration; access to Microsoft 365.
• AI Features: Voice assistance, interior scene understanding.
• Safety: Automatic activation of functions such as adaptive cruise control during calls.

Next Steps for Sales Teams

• Identify programs where cockpit upgrades are stalling due to compute limits or software constraints.
• Frame ROI around retrofit speed, added services revenue, and safety-led productivity.
• Book time with prospects attending CES 2026 to see it live and align pilot criteria.
• Upskill your team on AI use cases that decision-makers care about. See curated options by role at Complete AI Training.